Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 1,743, Rufus Foster, Continental Mass.

SERVICE
NUMBER
Continental Mass.
Foster, Rufus Susanna
N. 1,743
CONTENTS

Vermont 9388.
Rufus Foster
of Rochester in the State of Vermont who was a private in the Company commanded by Captain Nemp of the Reg't commanded by Col. Wells in the Mass. L for
17. Months
scribed on the Roll of Vermont the rate of 56. Dollars 66. Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.
Certificate of Pension issued the 14 day of May 1833. and sent to J. Haight, Burlington Burlington
Arrears to the 4th of March 1833. $113. 32
semi-ant. allowance ending 4 Sept. 1832. 28 33
$141. 65.
{ Revolutionary Claim, } Act June 7, 1832. }
Recorded by J. P. Francis Clerk, Book E. Vol. 3 d Page 64.

618.
Vermont
Susanna Foster widow of Rufus Foster.
who served in the Revolutionary
war, as a private , Moss's Line
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 56 Dollars 66
Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1848.
Certificate of Pension issued the 25 th day of July 1850 and sent to
Dea Billings Woodstock Vt.
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act February 29 1848, Page 27 Vol. A July
1890 Nov 27
M c W Cooper history
Prior

State of Vermont Windsor County
State of Vermont } At Bethel in said County on the 10 th day of Windsor County } August A.D. 1832 personally appeared in open court before the Hon. Leach Brainerd a judge of the court of Probate for the district of Hartford in the County of Windsor aforesaid now sitting at Bethel within said district, Rufus Rodin a resident of Rockingham in said County and district - aged seventy one years. The being first duly sworn according to law doth on his oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the act of Congress passed March 3 rd 1832 That he entered the United States Service under the following names and joined as above stated at the age of 17 in the year 1776 in his eighteenth year he enlisted
That the said ... officers and found as having ... with - That in the fall of the year 1776 in his eighteenth year he entered for three months to go to New Bedford but that his father fearing he was not able to endure the hardship of that service called him young and went in his stead as his substitute and would visit the three months I have not recollect who the officers were that commissioned the company That he enlisted a few days before the 1 st of March his birthday in the year 1777 in the Massachusetts State Troops as a private in a Capt. Lawrence Company of Infantry commanded by Capt. Law- rence Camp or Plummer his first Lieut. was White his second was Howard in the regiment was commanded by Col. Wells, that he does not recalled - the time he enlisted for but that he served that season as follows. This company was marched to Danbury was at Danbury to White Hall or York where they took boats and went down to Newbed- ford. The officers in company I am at that post were Generals Schuyler and St. Clair is not positive that Schuyler was at Newbedford but is sure of that impression - that he staid at that place till General Burgoyne accepted surrender and commanded the fort - when the American Army evacuated that fort, that at the time the British were assembling the evidences from Mount Defiance Col. Wells informed the regiment to which he belonged that their time was out, that he as well as the whole regiment volunteered to continue in the service at any rate until the fate of his company was decided; that on the retreat a great part of his company went with the principal part of the army up the lake in boats that he and eighteen others of his com- pany retreated by land that they passed Col. Warner's regiment at Hubbardston and camped that night in a cleared land

at Capt. Root's house where they came upon Capt. Brannon and his company of rangers. that the next morning they heard the alarm of the British & Colo. Warner that he & his 18 companions turned in to Capt. Brannon's company of rangers and joined Colo. Warner in the engagement that they drove the British in on three sides ready to then retreat. that in this engagement Capt. Root was killed & Colo. Warner wounded & boots were carried to the deceased's house, that he & his 18 companions there left Capt. Brannon & Colo. Warner and went in pursuit of their enemies that they almost noon of the day they started on reaching the top of a hill saw some women & children and a few reds & saw some Canadians & Indians eating dinner that they took the whole party saw the Indians there in number who escaped there were seven prisoners that they marched them on to the main body where he joined his company here learning that his regiment had resolved to remain as volunteers in the service till something more was known relative to the attempt to stop the progress of Burgoyne, that he was with the Army in its operations against Burgoyne till something like a week before he surrendered, that as his Brother Patrick was dangerously sick it was by his Captain thought he must be taken from the Army to save him and I was discharged & ordered to take my Brother home, that he made his service this season from the first of March to within a week of the surrender of Burgoyne about the 14th or 15th of October following to be seven months & one week more. - for further the year Gen. Arnold That on or before the first of May in 1780 as a matter of fact deserted he enlisted as a private in the New Jersey Line after five months as a private in Capt. [blank] company of infantry. that he was ordered to West Point in the route stop at Poughkeepsie & Fishkill in N. York after being there weeks on the point it was reported in the Army of volunteers was raising a division N. York that a Lieut. Colman came on to West Point to raise volunteers for this purpose that he enlisted as a volunteer that Colman raised three new companies & marched it off. that he was stationed

at Robbinsons farms a short time was there as I was down near the city. That there were troops collecting for the intended attack but that Gen. Washington, in a conference after he, the sd opponent, left West Point, came on and forbade the attack saying it would cost too many lives. That he then was stationed at Fishkill a while while there were camps for his army in fifteen different places but he was on the march for West Point Then they reached the point they learnt of the treason of Arnold that they after a while returned to Fishkill then went to a camp he thinks Haverbrook to cut wood there he remained till the last days of November when he moved to the east side of North River & was discharged; that he never joined his old company after he first left it that he remained with him, Colinson till he was discharged and was discharged by him. That throwing off parties in May and November of 1778 a few days he said some months two more than he enlisted for at first. That after the treason of Arnold and before he moved New London does not recollect the particular month it being around that Arnold was making an attack on New- London, boats were collected to defend that place that for this service at his native place he again enlisted in the Massachusetts line of militia as a private for three months in Sept. James Woolworth, company of infantry. That he and his company was marched down to and stationed at the five mile points so called 4 or 5 miles west of New Lon- don that there he should judge there was a large number of troops at New London about it, that at his station there were no troops other than his company. That he served all his time and was discharged by his captain. That Arnold did not make his appearance while he was out at that time - That he knows only of two persons living that has personal knowledge of all or any part of his said services or that knows circumstances that could throw light on the same. As to Capt. Sheldon & John Foster of Watertown both in the County of Litchfield State of Connecticut - and that he has no documentary evidence of his services. (Answers to the interrogatories put by the Court) That he was born in Barnstable in Massachusetts on the 8th March 1762

2 nd That he has had a record of his age in his Father's family bible which until three or four years since has been in his possession that it is now in the western part of the State of N-York.
3 rd That he was living at the time he entered the service at Bangorston in Massachusetts - went thence to live in Middlesex - Connecticut - thence to Bridgewater in N.H. thence to Rochester in N.H. his present place of residence.
4 th That he stated when he entered the service that oft he had served a while on his own free will and that he volunteered in his declaration stated above.
5 th That he did not recollect any other circumstances of his service or the manner of offering a company other than he has above stated.
6 th That he was regularly discharged by his commanding officer in his company from all of his obligations but that his discharge was always by parole.
7 th That his mother, Mr. Oliver Frase, Mr. Emerson, Thomas Hopkins are persons to whom he is well known in his present neighborhood to whom he has been known there for a number of years who can testify to his character for truth & honesty and their belief of his services as a soldier of the revolution.
The hereby relinquishes every claim whatever to a pension or annuity of any kind at the present and declares his name is not on the pension roll of the agency of any state.
true

State of Vermont Windsor County
On this 31 st day of December A D 1849 personally appeared before me John W Chaffee a Justice of the Peace duly authorized by law to administer oaths within and for the County of Windsor and State aforesaid Susanna Foster a resident of Rochester in said County aged 72 years who being duly sworn according to law doth on her oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the provisions made by the act of Congress passed July 29. 1848; that she is the Widow of Rufus Foster late of Rochester deceased who was in his life time a pensioner of the United States, and served in the Revolutionary War as specified in his declaration made under the act of June 7 th 1832 and drew a pension of $56.66 per annum.
She further declares that her name before marriage was Susanna Hubbard and that she was married to the said Rufus Foster at Rochester Vt on the 20 th day of March 1797. by Esq Eastman; that her husband the aforesaid Rufus Foster died at said Rochester on the 23 rd day of March 1836.; that she was not married to him prior to his leaving the service but the marriage took place previous to the second (day) of January eighteen hundred vis. at the time above stated.
She further swears that she is now a widow and that she has never before made any application for a pension, and has no Bible record of her marriage. } Robert H. H. H. witnesses. } Mary C. Foster
Susanna by Foster mark
Sworn to and subscribed on the day & year first above written
Before Me John W Chaffee Justice of the Peace

State of Vermont } Hartford District }
I Lyndon A Marsh Register of the Court of Probate of the District of Hartford aforesaid holden at Woodstock in and for said District, do hereby certify that satisfactory evidence has been exhibited to said Court that Rufus Foster of Rochester in said District was a prisoner of the United States at the rate of $56.66. per annum and that said Foster died at said Rochester on the 20 th day of March 1836. and left a Widow whose name is Susanna Foster the identical person who has signed the foregoing declaration who still remains a widow as aforesaid.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal of office at Woodstock this 4 day of January A D 1850
STATE OF VERMONT, } Windsor County, ss. }
I, Norman Williams, Clerk of the County Court, of the County of Windsor in the State of Vermont, do hereby certify that
John N. Chaffee of Rochester in said County and State
is an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said county, duly commissioned and qualified; that his commission was dated on the 30 th day of November in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty nine and will expire the thirtieth day of November next, and that his signature foregoing is genuine.
Given under my hand and the seal of said County Court, at Woodstock, in said County of Windsor, this fourth day of January A. D. 1850
Norman Williams Clerk
CCD 0

State of Vermont } Hartford District }
I Lyndon A Marsh Register of the Court of Probate of the District of Hartford aforesaid holden at Woodstock in and for said District, do hereby certify that satisfactory evidence has been exhibited to said Court that Rufus Foster of Rochester in said District was a pensioner of the United States at the rate of $56.66. per annum and that said Foster died at said Rochester on the 20 th day of March 1836. and left a Widow whose name is Susanna Foster the identical person who has signed the foregoing declaration who still remains a Widow as aforesaid.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my seal of office at Woodstock this 4 day of January A D 1850
L. A. Marsh. Register

599
Susanna Foster Widow of Rufus
Vermont
Act 29. July 1848
Married 1797 Husband died 1831
Adm 17 mos pri. $5000 per annum for 4 March 1848 Montpelier Agency
Col Billings Woodstock, Vermont

I John Trask Town Clerk of Rochester in the County of Windsor and State of Vermont hereby certify that on the applic- ation for the record of the births of the children of Rufus & Susanna Foster of said Rochester the following is found, to wit.
Record of Births of Rufus & Susanna Foster's Children - Rochester
Rufus W m Foster Born at Rochester Vt. June 20 th 1797
Hiram Foster Born at Rochester " April 20 th 1799
Harriet Foster Born at Do " Jan'y 4 th 1801
Dolly Foster Born " " " March 18 th 1802
Philena Foster Born " " " Dec r 17 th 1803
Susan Foster Born " " " July 4 th 1805
Ruth Foster Born " " " Feb. 17 th 1807
Esther Foster Born " " " May 11 th 1809
Ezekiel Foster Born " " " Jan. 1 st 1812
Mary Foster Born " " " May 27 th 1815
Ira C. Foster Born " " " June 30 th 1820
I hereby certify that the preceding is a true copy of an extract from the records of S t . Rochester expres- sed in fair writing & legible figures as above stated
Attest John Trask Town Clerk as aforesaid
I John Trask above named depose and say that I hold the office of Town Clerk in and for said Town of Rochester in the County of Windsor and State of Vermont and that the above is a true extract from the records of said Town of Rochester as certified by me.
John Trask Town Clerk
State of Vermont Rochester 25 th March 1850
Windsor County ss. The above sworn to and subscribed this 25 th day of March A.D. 1850
Before me Sumner H. Webber Justice of the Peace,

STATE OF VERMONT, ) I, Norman Williams, Clerk of the County Court of the County of Windsor, ss. ) ty of Windsor in the State of Vermont, do hereby certify that
Sumner A. Webber
is an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said county, duly commissioned and qualified; that his commission was dated on the 30 Day of November in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty nine and will expire the thirtieth day of November next, and that his signature to the foregoing certificate is genuine.
Given under my hand and the seal of said County Court, at Woodstock, in said County of Windsor, this 27 day of March A. D. 1850
Norman Williams Clerk.

11.462
Rufus Foster
Mch 91, 1855
Ob; 14.11
W. H. Haight
Present
P 290 Admitted

11.462
BRIEF in the case of  Rufus Foster -  of Rochester in the State of  Vermont  (Act 7th June, 1832.)
 1. Was the declaration made before a Court or a Judge? Open Court  2. If before a Judge, does it appear that the applicant is disabled by bodily infirmity?  3. How old is he? 71 years  4. State his service, as directed in the form annexed. 
   Period. Duration of Service. Rank. Names of General and Field Officers under whom he served.   Years, Months, Days.     a few days before 6 th March 1777 until about the 14 th or 15 th Oct r following — 7 7 Private Gen. Schuyler & St. Clair State troops Capt. D. Kemp - Co. 77 Col. Wells Reg t - enlisted & volunt d ?   May 1780 # — 7 — do Capt. — Lieut. Col. — Co. 2 enlisted volunt d ?   not stated — 3 — do Capt. Jas. Walworth Co. 9 enlisted  
 5. In what battles was he engaged? with part of Burgoyne's Army — # enlisted for five months at first  6. Where did he reside when he entered the service? Barnardstown - Mass s  7. Is his statement supported by living witnesses, by documentary proof, by traditional evidence, by incidental evidence, or by the rolls? by the traditional evidence of several witnesses, & partial or incidental evidence of others - all certified to be credible persons  8. Are the papers defective as to form or authentication? and if so, in what respect? not attached according to the regulations 
I certify that the foregoing statement and the answers agree with the evidence in the case above mentioned.
E. Stephens
Examining Clerk.

In reply to your request of _____, received _____ for a statement of the military history of Rufus Foster a soldier of the REVOLUTIONARY WAR, you will find below the desired information as contained in his (or his widow's) application for pen- sion on file in this Bureau.
Ms. File 1743
   DATES OF ENLISTMENT OR APPOINTMENT.  LENGTH OF SERVICE.  RANK.  OFFICERS UNDER WHOM SERVICE WAS RENDERED.  STATE.    CAPTAIN.  COLONEL.      Oct. 1, 1777  7 mos. 6 days  Pri.  Lawrence Kemp * Brownson  Wells Warren  Mass. Gt. Mt. Baps    May 1, 1780  7 mos.  Pri.  John Southwick Lt. Ely  ✓ ✓  ✓    1781  3 mos.   James Malinworth  ✓  Mass.     * Vol. in Capt. Brownson's Co. at lat. of Hable. After which he joined his son (Rufus) who was subsequently discharged to take his sick brother, Ezekiel, home. July 1, 1781  Battles engaged in, Hubbardston  Residence of soldier at enlistment, Peru  Date of application for pension, Aug. 10, 1832. Hld.  Residence at date of application, Rochester, Windham Co. Vt.  Age at date of application, March 6, 1832 at Peru  Remarks: Sol. mrs. Rochester Vt. Mch. 20, 1837. Susanna Hubbard.  He died Mch. 23, 1836 at Rochester Vt.  She was still living on Dec. 31, 1849 while 72 yrs. of age & a res.  of Rochester aforesaid.  gr. children from Dorr's report

11162
Rufus Foster's Declaration for
20 months service if the 1st 3 months served for enlist & his father is second time if not then 17 months
To be sent to J. H. Wright Burlington Ky
Admitted Private Chap a Line Private 17 months & 7 days

Rufus Foster
Sworn to and subscribed } The day + year aforesaid }
In Raymond Indg
We Enoch Emerson Thomas Hodgkins & Frank Resideing in Roxbury in the County of Windsor aforesaid hereby certify that we are well acquainted with Rufus Foster who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration; that we believe him to be twenty one years of age; that he is respected and believed in the neighborhood where he resides, to have been a veteran of the revolution and that we con- cur in that opinion and that we have never doubted the same
Enoch Emerson Ret'd Supt Thomas Hodgkins age 76
Sworn to and subscribed } the day + year aforesaid }
In Raymond Indg
And the said Court do hereby declare his opinion after the investigation of the matter and after putting the interrogatories prescribed by the War Department; That the above named applicant - was a revolutionary soldier and served as he states. And the court further cer- tifies that it appears to him that Enoch Emerson Robert Frank + Thomas Hodgkins who have signed the foregoing certificate are residents in the town of Roxbury in the County of Windsor aforesaid and are credible persons and that their statement is entitled to credit. And the court further certifies that there is no clergyman living in the vicinity of the said applicant that has lived in such vicinity over a year and it is presumed that  the  said  clergyman that such clergyman would not know what the established reputation of the applicant was for revolutionary services
In Raymond Indg

I Lyndon C. Kiernan Clerk & Register of the Court of Probate for the district of Hartford containing for the county of Windsor aforesaid do hereby certify That the foregoing contains the original pro- ceedings of the said court in the matter of the application of Rufus Foster for a pension.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of office of said court this 10 day of August AD 1832
L. H. Marsh Register
State of Vermont, Hartford District ss.
I, Edwin Hutchinson Register of the Probate Court within & for said District, hereby certify That the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of the applica- tion of Rufus Foster for a pension.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal of office of said Court at the Probate Office in Woodstock in said District this 21 st day of April A.D. 1833.
Edwin Hutchinson Register.

N 599
Susanna Foster
VT
Letter to Billings 11 th Mar 1850
— a. n. h. 18. 1. 6

Rufus Foster
Born in Barnardston, Franklin Co Mass March 6. 1762 where living during the war removed to Middlesex Co then to Bridgewater & Rochester Windsor Co Vt in which latter place residing Aug 1832 when he applied for her pension mar at Rochester Vt to Susanna Hubbard March 20 1797 - had one 16 children Died at Rochester March 23 1836 Sister to Abel Hubbard of Rochester aged 65 yrs (Dec 31 1844 Stated) Had a wedding supper & dance Wife aged Stated Dec 31 1849 at 72 years
Widow's father moved to Rochester in March 1792 from Putney Vt adding children to the list at Putney of those born in Rochester after 1792. Could not recollect the names of all her offspring.
In fall of 1776 he volunteered for 3 months as a substitute for her father to go to Ticonderoga N.Y. but the names of her officers not recollected.
He enlisted March 1777 for 7 mos under Capt Lawrence Camp & Col Wells marched to Bennington Vt then to Whitehall N.Y. & by boats down to Ticonderoga where Genl Schuyler & St Clair were at that Port where he remained until Burgoyne occupied Mount B. & Fraser then bombarded the Port when the Americans evacuated the place & he retreated to Hubbardston where Col Warner was defeated from them continued to Capt Fogg's house in the night & the next morning heard the fighting by Warner at Hubbardston (July 7. 1777) & he with others of Comrades joined Capt Bronson's of Rangers & returned & joined Col Warner was engaged in the battle driving the enemy the British on the main army. Capt Fort was killed & Col Warner wounded.
The next day on their march discovered a body of Canadians eating dinner & captured the whole party save those who escaped (17 taken) - He remained in service with the main army in operations against Burgoyne for about a week before he surrendered.
His brother Ezekiel was dangerously sick & he was discharged to take her brother home.
In May 1781 he enlisted for 4 months marched to & was on duty at

West point & Fishkill where it was reported that Volunteers were being rec'd by officer Coleman to attack NY City which he joined, going down the Hudson river to near that city where other troops assembling for the same purpose but in 2 or 3 weeks were notified that the movement was abandoned & he returned to Fishkill & West point & learned of the treason of Arnold (Sept 23, 1780) & discharged on Dec 1780 The storm which preceded the surrender & burning of New London (Sept  1781 ) he volunteered for 3 months under Capt James Wolcott & marched to Five mile point, west of New London at which latter place & vicinity of there were assembled a considerable number of troops but no other than his company where he was stationed. Arnold did not make his appearance before the fight ( Moretown John Foster of Watbury Washington Co Vt born in Bernardston where he lived until 24 years old
(not furnished)
Abel Hubbard of Rochester age stated mch 1850 as 65 yrs July 18 1850 (1785) Betsey Hubbard born in Pitsy aged stated mch 1850 as Betsey do born in Sumner 1797 & will be 53 yrs old in Jan 1850 (1797) Abijah do 1779 nearly 2 yrs after Silvanus was married in July 1777 Abijah (oldest son) -
His children
Francis do Polly do Eliza do 5 years older than Abel

Respectfully referred to the Chief Record Division for consideration and reply to writer, to whom one dollar bill has this day been returned.
A. H. Thompson (K.M.) Chief Finance Div.
Oct. 8, 1910.

OCT 10 1910
Manhattan, October 6-1910
Commissioner of Pensions Washington D.C.
Dear Sir.
Will you please send me the records relating to Rufus Foster's army life. My grandmother, Susanna Hub- bard Foster drew a pension as Rufus Foster's widow. I want proof that I am eligible to become a member of the "Daughters American Revolution" A chapter soon to be

One dollar bill returned Oct. 8/10. K. M. ... to winter.
organized here. I enclose 1.00. A prompt reply will greatly oblige, as I am anxious to join as charter member.
Respectfully
Mrs Mary Foster Greeley, 1024 Fremont St., Manhattan, Kansas.

107
3-871.
RECORD DIVISION.
Department of the Interior, BUREAU OF PENSIONS.
Briefed by a. Wm D. 10/10/10
Claim No. _____
Certificate No. _____
Claimant Susanna
Soldier Rufus Foster
Service _____
Additional Service Rev.
No _____ claim, State records _____, 191_____
No claim, combination records _____, 191_____
REMARKS:
Wid. F. 1,743 (Susanna)

J. E. West, D. D. S.
Geneseo, Ill. Jan 19 1900
Pension Bureau -
Sir:-
Rufus Foster was a pensioner - of the Revolutionary War - serving for the state of Mass. He resided in Windsor Co. Vt. when the pension was drawn.
Will you state what pension office gives concerning his service.
Dates etc -
Respt - Mrs. J. E. West.
Geneseo Ill.
see D. A. R.

Mr W Cooper      N.Y. City Oct 21 1890 Rufus Foster VV

due d March 23. 1836
n o Cart es 9388
THE UNION LEAGUE CLUB.
Genl. Green B. Rau
Commission of Pensions
Washington D.C.
Dear Sir: My Grand Father, Rufus Foster served in the Revolutionary Army and was pensioned under an Act of Congress. I would thank you should you find his name on the Rolls to certify to me such facts concerning his services as may be found recorded.

recorded in his application for such pension
I believe he died in 1836 and received his last pension in that year.
He was a native of one of the New England States and resided if not during the war shortly after its close in Vermont.
Yours truly M. H. Cooper
New York Oct. 21 st 1890 Union League Club.

Feb 12-1900 to Mrs. J. E. Cook Geneva Ill 1910 Oct. 15 "Hist. to Mrs. Mary Foster Greeley. P.
Power
WIDOW, &c.
File No 1743 Susanna Foster, Widow Rufus Foster, Deceased Rev. W. Am.
Act: July 24. 1848.
Index:—Vol. A Page 245-
[Arrangement of 1870.]

Mountbatten, W. Roll, Oct 7 June 1832
✓ Rufus Foster Pri. $5000 per annum.
To what time last year? To his death — March 23, 1836.

State of Vermont Hartford District Windsor County
By me J. H. D.
On this 21 st day of March A D 1850 personally appeared before the Hon. the Probate Court of the District of Hartford aforesaid, Susanna Foster a resident of Rochester in said District. Aged 72 Years. who being duly sworn according to law, doth on her Oath make the following declaration in order to obtain the benefits of the provisions made by the Act of Congress passed July 29 th 1848;
That she is the widow of Rufus Foster late of Rochester afo d deceased, who was in his life time a pensioner of the United States under the Act of Congress of June 7 th 1832, and served in the Revolutionary War, as specified in his declaration made under said Act and drew a pension of $56.66. per annum.
She further declares that her name before marriage was Susanna Hubbard and that she was married to the said Rufus Foster at said Rochester on the 20 th day of March 1797, by Esq. Eastman; that her said Husband Rufus Foster died at said Rochester on the 28 th day of March A D 1836; that she was not married to him prior to his leaving the service, but the marriage took place at the time above stated.
She further declares and swears, that she is now a widow and that she has never before made application for a pension except the one now at Washington made before John W. Chapin of Dec. 31. 1849; and she also says she has no Bible or other record of her said marriage.
Witnesses } M. Foster Ruth Foster
Susanna her Foster mark.
Sworn to and subscribed on the day and year first above written
J. H. D. Judge

State of Vermont Hartford District
I Lyndon A Marsh Register of the Court of Probate of the District of Hartford aforesaid do hereby certify that the within and foregoing contains the original proceedings of said Court in the matter of the application of Susanna Foster for a pension: and
I further certify, that satisfactory evidence has been exhibited to said Court that Rufus Foster within named was a pensioner of the United States at the rate of $56.66. per annum and that said Rufus Foster died at Rochester in said District on the 23 d day of March AD 1836. and left a Widow whose name is Susanna Foster, the identical person who has signed the foregoing declaration, who still remains a Widow as aforesaid.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my Seal of Office at Woodstock this 21 st day of March AD 1850.
L. A. Marsh, Register,

Rufus Foster Dedication

I hereby certify that Cephas Sheldon & John Foster who have signed & sworn to the within affidavits are men of truth & veracity, and will know no more, and that their statements are entitled to credit.
Dan Carhart Jr. Judge of Washington County Court
State of Vermont Washington County S.S.
I Joshua Wail Clerk
of the County Court within & for the county of Washington aforesaid do hereby certify
that Dan Carhart Jr. Esq. before whom the within affidavits were taken, is a Judge of Washington County Court, & ex-
Officio a Justice of the Peace within and for the county of Washington, duly appointed & commissioned under the Authority of this State and that his name to the same as such is his own proper hand writing.
In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Seal of Office this 11 th day September A.D. 1832 — At Joshua Wail Clerk
(Handwritten signature of Joshua Wail Clerk)

I Ephraim Sheldon of Waterbury in the County of Washington & State of Vermont, aged seventy eight years testify and say that I am well acquainted with Rufus Foster now residing in Rochester in the County of Windsor Vermont, and have known him from his childhood having both of us been born in Barnardston, our fathers being near neighbors. In the year 1776 I was in the service & continued to service until the month of Feb. 1777 when I returned home to Barnardston and well recollect that the said Foster enlisted into the Army the fore part of March 1777 and marched as was then said & believed for Ticonderoga and remained in the service until some time in the fall of the same year I should think from my best recollection until the last of October or first of November when he returned home, I well recollect frequently hearing him relate his services, and have no doubt he served that year as stated in his declaration, I further state that the said Foster enlisted, and went to West Point as a soldier in the army and was gone six or seven months, do not recollect the year, but know it was the same year that Arnold committed treason at West Point, well recollect Foster relating the circumstances on his return home & afterwards. I also recollect the said Foster & several other of my then neighbors going to New London in Connecticut & serving a term of three months one of my brothers who is now dead served with Foster during said term, according to my best recollection it must have been in the year 1781 - but am not certain w th the year, - and further say not. Ephraim Sheldon
State of Vermont - At Waterbury on the 10 th day of September 1833 Personally appeared Ephraim Sheldon the signer of the above affidavit and made oath that the same contains the truth & nothing but the truth according to his best recollection & belief. Before me David Carpenter Judge of Washington County Court

I John Foster of Montpelier in the County of Washington & State of Vermont aged seventy years testify and say that I was born & lived in Barnardton in the State of Mass until I was twenty four years old, that I have known been acquainted with Rufus Foster now a resident of Rochester Vermont from his youth until this time, that S d Foster was born in S d Barnardton, that we were near neighbors for more than twenty years while we resided in S d Barnardton and I further state that in the spring of the year that Burgoyne surrendered, the said Foster enlisted & marched for Ticonderoga & was absent six or seven months - when he returned home, according to my best recollection, and further state that the year that Arnold committed treason the said Foster went on a tour of duty as a soldier in the American Army to that point, as near then said & believed, was absent some six or seven months, - and I further state that in the year 1781 which according to my more recollection that S d Foster with several other of my then neighbors enlisted for the the three months more, marched & were stationed at New London Connecticut, until recollect three having left home & returning back again after having served out their term of three months - I also know that it was generally understood & believed in the neighborhood that S d Foster served the several terms above mentioned, and was reputed an excellent soldier - and further say not.
Yours Foster
State of Vermont } At Montpelier on the 10 th day of February Washington County } Dec r 1832 Personally appeared John Foster who signed the above affidavit, and made solemn oath that the same contains the truth and nothing but the truth according to his best recollection & belief before me. Darius Chipman Judge of Washington County Ct.

I Abel Hubbard of Rochester in the County of Windsor and State of Vermont Aged 65 years testify and say that I was well acquainted with Rufus Foster in his life time late of said Rochester deceased and that he was a prisoner of the U.S. and drew a pension of $56.66 per annum and that he died at said Rochester on the 23 d day of March 1836; and left a Widow whose name is Susanna Foster who is a Sister of mine, now residing in said Rochester, and I was present at the marriage of said Rufus Foster and Susanna Hubbard which took place at said Rochester on the 20 th day of March 1797 which ceremony was performed by Esq Eastman at my father's house and they have had ten children or more and the Oldest if now living, would be 52 years old.
witnes { Hail Cheney Abel Billings
his Abel Hubbard mark
State of Vermont } Windsor County } Rochester December 31 1849
Then personally appeared Abel Hubbard the signer above and made Oath to the truth of the foregoing affidavit by him subscribed.
Before me. John W. Chaffee Justice of Peace I further certify that said Hubbard is undoub ted for truth and veracity and is a credible witness, which I personally know, having been long acquainted with him.
STATE OF VERMONT, } I, Norman Williams, Clerk of the County Court of the County of Windsor in the State of Vermont, do hereby certify that
John W. Chaffee of Rochester in said County and State is an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said county, duly commissioned, and qualified; that his commission was dated on the 30 th day of November in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty nine and will expire the thirtieth day of November next, and that his signatures foregoing are genuine.
Given under my hand and the seal of said County Court, at Woodstock, in said County of Windsor, this fourth day of January A. D. 1850
Norman Williams Clerk.

I Abel Hubbard of Rochester in the County of Windsor and State of Vermont Aged 65 years testify and say that I was well acquainted with Rufus Foster in his life time late of said Rochester deceased and that he was a prisoner of the U.S. and drew a pension of $56.66 per annum and that he died at said Rochester on the 23 d day of March 1836; and left a Widow whose name is Susanna Foster who is a Sister of mine, now residing in said Rochester, and I was present at the marriage of said Rufus Foster and Susanna Hubbard which took place at said Rochester on the 26 th day of March 1797 which ceremony was performed by Esq Eastman at my father's house and they have had ten children or more and the Oldest if now living, would be 52 years old.
Witnesses { Hail Cheney { Abel Billings
his Abel Hubbard mark
State of Vermont } Windsor County } Rochester December 31 1844
Then personally appeared Abel Hubbard the signer above and made Oath to the truth of the foregoing affidavit by him subscribed.
Before me. John W. Chaffin Justice of Peace I further certify that said Hubbard is undoubt ed for truth and veracity and is a credible witness, which I personally know, having been long acquainted with him.
John W. Chaffin Justice of Peace

I hereby certify that on the application for the marriage of Rufus Foster and Susanna Linn  Hubbard of Rochester in the County of Windsor and State of Vermont this day made, I have carefully and minutely examined all the Town Records for such marriage and it is not to be found. Rochester Dec. 31. 1849. John Trask Town Clerk
I John Trask of Rochester in the County of Windsor and State of Vermont aged 56 years, do testify and say, that I hold the office of Town Clerk for said town of Rochester, and that the above certificate is true. And I further testify and say, that at the time it is said, that the said Rufus & Susanna were married, I found but very few marriages recorded, and then it was not thought necessary. And I further testify and say that I have been been well acquainted with said Foster and wife ever since my first recollection, always having lived in my school district, and they have had nine or ten children, and they have always lived quietly together as husband and wife, and their oldest son by the name of Rufus, if now living, would be I should say fifty three years old or about that age and said Rufus senior drew a pension from the United States. John Trask Town Clerk
State of Vermont } Windsor County } Rochester Dec. 31. 1849
Personally appeared John Trask Town Clerk aforesaid, and made oath to the truth of the above affidavit & certificate by him subscribed:
Before me John W. Chaplin Justice of Peace

I hereby certify that on the application for the marriage of Rufus Foster and Susanna Hubbard of Rochester in the County of Windsor and State of Vermont this day made, I have carefully and minutely examined all the Town Records for such marriage and it is not to be found. Rochester Dec. 31. 1849. John Trask Town Clerk
I John Trask of Rochester in the County of Windsor and State of Vermont aged 56 years, do testify and say, that I hold the office of Town Clerk for said town of Rochester, and that the above certificate is true. And I further testify and say, that at the time it is said, that the said Rufus & Susanna were married, I find but very few marriages recorded, and then it was not thought necessary. And I further testify and say that I have been well acquainted with said Foster and wife ever since my first recollection, always having lived in my school district, and they have had nine or ten children, and they have always lived quietly together as husband and wife, and their oldest son by the name of Rufus, if now living, would be I should say fifty the years old or about that age and said Rufus since drew a pension from the United States. John Trask Town Clerk
State of Vermont } Windsor County } Rochester Dec. 31. 1849
Personally appeared John Trask Town Clerk aforesaid, and made oath to the truth of the above affidavit & certificate by him subscribed:
Before me John W. Chappe Justice Peace

I Abel Hubbard of Proctor in the County of Windsor and State of Vermont aged 65 years the 18 th day of February last, testify and say as I did in a former affidavit which I gave on the 31 st day of December AD 1849 relative to the same subject that I was present at the marriage of Rufus Foster to Susanna Hubbard my sister and I know it was in the month of March & as I believe the 20 th day of that month AD 1797 first I believe it to be in that month & year from a general family recollection. Second from the fact that my Father moved into Proctor in the month of March AD 1792 my sister being married in the same month of the year March impressed this fact on my memory 3 d I recollect - that in the fore part of the summer, and next after Susanna was married in the year 1797 - I find by a copy now before me of the registry of the births of the children of my Father at Putney Vermont, that I am correct that my sister Betsey was born - she will be fifty three years old next sum - My Father & Mother some years after the birth of their last child on a visit to Putney caused the births of all the children born in Proctor to be added to the record commenced at Putney prior to 1792 - I further say that I recollect that my Brother Abijah was born nearly two years after my sister Susanna was married to Rufus Foster he was born in February and is now fifty one years old - as to the circumstances attending the marriage, I recollect - My oldest sister Abigail & her husband Silas Mead were present at the marriage. my 2 Sisters Emma and Dolly were also present all of whom are now alive as I believe. My brother Elisha five years older than myself, was present & invited in the young people. our neighbors Stephen Whitehead & John Plummer & some of their families were also present at the marriage -

I Abel Hubbard of Rochester in the County of Windsor and State of Vermont aged 65 years the 18 th day of February last, testify and say as I did in a former affidavit which I gave on the 31 st day of December A D 1849 relative to the same subject that I was present at the marriage of Rufus Foster to Susanna Hubbard my sister and I know it was in the month of March & as I believe the 20 th day of that month A D 1797 first I believe it to be in that month & year from a general family recollection. Second from the fact that my Father moved into Rochester in the month of March A D 1792 my sister being married in the same month of the year March impressed this fact on my memory 3 d I recollect that in the fore part of the summer, and next after Susanna was married, in the year 1797 I find by a copy now before me of the registry of the births of the children of my Father at Putney Vermont, that I am correct, that my sister Betsey was born - she will be fifty three years old next June - My Father & Mother some years after the birth of their last child on a visit to Putney caused the births of all the children born in Rochester to be added to the record commenced at Putney prior to 1792 - I further say that I recollect that my Brother Abijah was born nearly two years after my sister Susanna was married to Rufus Foster she was born in February and is now fifty one years old - as to the circumstances attending the marriage, I recollect - My oldest sister Abigail & Sir Richard Silas Melven were present at the marriage. my 2 sisters Eunice and Dolly were also present all of whom are now alive as I believe. My brother Elisha five years older than myself, was present & invited in the young people. our neighbor Stephen Whitehead & John Thayer & some of their families were also present at the marriage -

I also recollect that the wedding cake was just round & the party principally staid to supper. Dea. Eastman the justus remained late after supper & I believe he staid & danced in the evening. I know my Father & all that remained of the party danced. I well recollect the fiddler Dea. Jefferson was present also. The marriage was at my Father's house. I recollect and say that Dea. Eastman then a Justice of the Peace solemnised {Abel & Hubbell} the marriage.
his mark Abel & Hubbell mark
State of Vermont
Windsor County ss Rochester 21 st March AD 1850
I then personally appeared Abel Hubbard the signer above and made oath to the truth of the foregoing affidavit by him subscribed.
Before me Sumner H. Webber Justice of the Peace
I further certify that I am and long have been acquainted with the above named Abel Hubbard and that he is a man of truth and veracity and that he is a credible witness.
Sumner H. Webber Justice of the Peace

STATE OF VERMONT, ) I, Norman Williams, Clerk of the County Court, of the County Windsor County....ss. Sty of Windsor in the State of Vermont, do hereby certify that
Sumner A. Webber
is an acting Justice of the Peace in and for said county, duly commissioned and qualified; that his commission was dated on the 30 th day of November in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and forty nine and will expire the thirtieth day of November next, and that his signature Sumner A. Webber is genuine.
Given under my hand and the seal of said County Court, at Woodstock, in said County of Windsor, this 21 3 day of March A. D. 1850
Norman Williams, Clerk.

Woodstock Ct. July 13. 1850
Sir.
I would call your attention to my two communications of March 28. and May 20. 1850. in relation to the Claim of Susanna Foster, Widow of Rufus Foster formerly a Pensioner of the U.S. This Claim was presented first in December 1849. and further proof was forwarded as to the Marriage March 28. and no answer as yet received.
May I hope to have a reply soon.
I am Respectfully your Bst. S r . Ole Billings
Col. J. L. Edwards Comm d of Pensions Washington City

Vermont. Woodstock March 27. 1850
Sir.
I received your favor of the 11 th instant, relative to the claim of Susanna Foster for a Pension, which by the way, you called her name Phebe, I suppose through mistake. I have had her appear before the Probate Court as you directed and also I forward you, undoubted testimony of the time of her marriage. Please give me an early return
I am Respectfully your Obedt Servt Orrin Billings
Col. J. L. Edwards, Comd. of Pensions Washington City D. C.

Woodstock Vt. Jan. 4. 1850
Sir.
I forward you herewith, the papers in the case of Susanna Foster Widow of Rufus Foster, for the purpose of sustaining her Claim to a Pension, and I would thank you for an early reply.
I am Respectfully your Obt Serv. Oel Billings
Col. J. L. Edinells
Comm d of Pensions
Washington City D. C.

Woodstock Vt May 20 1850
Sir.
In consequence of the delay, in not receiving an answer to my communication, enclosing the additional testimony of marriage in the case of Susan Foster widow of Rufus Foster for a pension I fear the papers have failed to reach their destination, and would thank you to inform me whether the papers have come to hand.
I am Respectfully your Obedt Servt. Oel Billings
Col. J. L. Edwards
Comm d of Pensions
Washington City
D. C.